UPMC Pinnacle plans to close its Lancaster hospital

Brett Sholtis is a reporter for PA Post. He’s also WITF’s Transforming Health reporter, focusing on health policy and personal health issues. Brett previously worked as a business reporter for York Daily Record. He’s a graduate of University of Pittsburgh.

UPMC Pinnacle plans to close its Lancaster hospital and shift inpatient services to UPMC Pinnacle Lititz by March 2019. Pinnacle Health acquired the two Lancaster County hospitals before merging with UPMC in 2017.

In a press release, UPMC Pinnacle didn’t specify why the Lancaster facility is slated for closure.

“UPMC Pinnacle Lititz is an updated facility well-equipped to handle additional services while offering the opportunity for future expansion and growth,” said David Simons, UPMC Pinnacle Lititz Medical Staff president, in the press release.

UPMC Pinnacle outpatient services in Lancaster City will remain at the medical office building across the street from UPMC Pinnacle Lancaster.

The health system didn’t say how many jobs would be affected by the closure.

“UPMC Pinnacle aims to retain and place as many Lancaster employees as possible in positions within UPMC,” the release stated. “UPMC Pinnacle will also work closely with local hospitals to identify and share available positions with affected employees. Thorough plans are in place to support and work with employees and to communicate with current patients and the community.”

There is no plan in place for the Lancaster facility. The health system plans to work with Lancaster’s mayor, Danene Sorace, “to explore redevelopment options for the appropriate and positive use of the property that would benefit the city of Lancaster and area residents.”

UPMC Pinnacle spokeswoman Kelly McCall said in an email that the health system is not providing any additional comments outside of the press release and website.